The Congressional newspaper ranked the firms by revenue for the first half of 2009. Brownstein posted lobbying revenue of $9.1 million, up 31 percent from the same time a year ago when it ranked No. 16. To see the Top 25 list, click here.

Brownstein increased its federal lobbying practice revenues by 44 percent to $5.4 million and added 10 new clients in the second quarter, according to a spokeswoman.

The practice appears to be one of the few bright spots amid the recession for Brownstein, perhaps Colorado’s most recognizable law firm. Brownstein went through a round of layoffs earlier this year for the first time in its history.

“The second quarter was one of record growth for us,” said Al Mottur, managing partner of Brownstein’s Washington, D.C., office. “While our new clients span a range of industries from energy to healthcare to telecommunications, many share a common thread – an increased desire to engage policymakers in this heightened political climate in Washington.

Andy Vuong joined The Denver Post as a business reporter in 2000 after graduating from the University of Colorado at Boulder with a news-editorial degree. His primary beats are gambling, telecommunications and technology. Over the years, his coverage has included everything from aviation to federal courts.